I spent this summer working in France, at a restaurant in Paris Disneyland. I went there through a WAT France program.
Never had I been abroad so far before, so the arrival was a bit striking. However, provided you spoke French, people were really hospitable. Although I spent some time looking for accommodation, it’s fairly easy to find a nice place no more than 30 minutes away from your job.
In the restaurant, my duties were both to serve and prepare food. Depending on the employees’ French, managers established serving/cooking ratio for everyone. My job did not involve cash procedures, but if you find a place with tips, go for it - tourists are generous. French cuisine is famous, even if not something particular. I can now prepare several French dishes. The secret is to cook with love and in small quantities.
The maximum work week right now is 35 hours a week, and minimum hourly wage after tax deduction is €7,66. I wanted to fill in my free days with a second job, but I could not get one legally. Unfortunately, people did not trust me as a foreigner enough to let me work in the grey market.
My coworkers were 80% my age, mostly French and also some Russian speakers. The employers found Eastern Europeans very exotic and fairly better workers than the French. There were a couple of big staff parties after park closing times. It was amazing to see all of more than 20 000 employees in one big square. It was a great chance to make new acquaintances and enjoy Heineken to the fullest. I have made friends with all of my colleagues, including the managers who were quite tolerant to me as a foreigner. Generally speaking, emigrants in France are countless.
Paris isn’t called the cultural capital of Europe by accident and it truly lived up to my expectations. I also had a personal guide - an Art History major from Germany. My friend guided me through the city’s main sights and through its absinthe bars as well!
All employees received a Disneyland personnel ID which gives a right of passage everywhere in the amusement park. I did profit from that quite a bit, as well as from the up to 80% shopping discounts in July. Furthermore, while on duty, you can eat FOR FREE in all employee restaurants and canteens.
As far as health is concerned, fortunately, I didn’t have to use the healthcare system, but I was told a work permit and a contract provide insurance. Besides, you have to pay €74 before leaving Bulgaria.
I am very content with my visit and if I have the chance, I will surely go there again.
